Category: personal

Vicky had to report at 5 o’clock today to begin the transition to Basic Training. She ran inside, checked in, and then ran right back out so we could go to dinner together, along with her closest friend, Meredith.  We had a pleasant dinner, and then dropped her off for good. Oh. I have no words.

Too soon! Too soon! Even though we’ve had months to prepare. It seems like only yesterday she was taking her first steps, and now she has finally taken her own steps into total independence.  I think she was torn between throwing up or cartwheels. Maybe both. Especially if she was doing the cartwheels first. I know which one I’m going to do. Hint: I’m in no shape for cartwheels.

I watched her as she was giving her things one final pass.  She tucked her St. Michael medal in her shirt, and packed the olive drab twine rosary in the new digital camo back pack.  That’s all she takes with her–that, and a couple of changes of clothes. And a piece of my heart.

Anyway, here I sit. Contemplating boxes of memories that she’s packed up. Piles of clothes to be taken to St. Vincent de Paul.  Mementos left behind. I’ll get to them. Just not yet.